AFT President Criticizes Trump's Education Department Restructuring Plan

WASHINGTON—AFT Responds to President Trump's Plan for Education Department Restructuring

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President, Randi Weingarten, has issued a statement in response to President Donald Trump’s recent announcement concerning changes to the structure of the U.S. Department of Education. The proposed plan involves relocating various aspects of the department to other federal entities.

Weingarten criticized the initiative, asserting that it does not represent genuine reform but rather signifies a retreat from the commitment to America's educational future. She emphasized that the plan fails to demonstrate leadership in empowering students to reach their full potential, stating it neglects this crucial responsibility.

The AFT has historically opposed the creation of a standalone Department of Education since its inception discussions in the 1970s, due to concerns about unnecessary bureaucracy. Weingarten highlighted that the union has consistently supported a federal role that facilitates success for all children across the nation.

The statement further argues that the administration’s actions are not aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape. Teachers, Weingarten suggested, could effectively assist in such efforts if consulted. She extended an invitation to Donald Trump and Linda McMahon to engage with educators, who possess firsthand knowledge of how to enhance the federal role to be more supportive of real learning outcomes.

According to Weingarten, dispersing services among multiple departments will likely result in increased confusion, errors, and hurdles for individuals seeking necessary support. She labeled this approach as a strategic diversion of funds that have historically enabled children to fulfill their American dreams. Additionally, she warned that this shift could weaken public schools, which serve as platforms for diverse voices and the reinforcement of pluralism, fundamental to democracy.

Weingarten concluded by expressing that the federal government is neglecting its duty to all students, which she deems unacceptable. She called on Congress to reassert its authority over education in forthcoming federal funding discussions. Meanwhile, the AFT plans to continue its advocacy efforts, potentially through legal action, to ensure that every American has access to a robust public school system that offers a promising future.

About the AFT: The American Federation of Teachers represents a diverse group of professionals, including 1.8 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers, paraprofessionals, school-related personnel, higher education faculty, professional staff, government employees, nurses, healthcare workers, and early childhood educators.

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